Friday's Ask the Experts: Laminate finish

Friday''s Ask the Experts question from a cleaning professional on the International Custodial Advisors Network (ICAN) "Ask the Experts" page: The rotunda molding has a laminate finish and over time there are deep smudges that are very hard to remove. Is there a way to remove smudges without stripping and resealing the wood?

The answer:

If the grime you describe will not respond to a mild degreasing solution, you may be forced to refinish. In this case, a wipe in time saves nine…or more. The refinishing may involve only a light sanding, followed by applying an oil finish or ... — Lynn E. Krafft, ICAN/ATEX editor